Why an AED is valuable:

✤ Rapid response saves lives: During cardiac arrest, every minute without treatment reduces survival by about 7–10%. An AED can be used immediately—often before emergency services arrive—greatly increasing the chance of survival.

✤ Easy for anyone to use: AEDs are designed for public use. They provide clear voice and visual instructions, making them effective even for people with little or no medical training.

✤ Critical in public spaces: Schools, sports facilities, workplaces, and community venues benefit from having AEDs readily available, as cardiac arrest can occur without warning and at any age.

✤ Safe and reliable: AEDs include built-in safety checks and will only deliver a shock when it is medically necessary.

✤ Importance of a maintenance schedule: An AED is only effective if it is properly maintained. A regular maintenance schedule ensures batteries are charged, electrode pads are within date, and the device is fully operational. Routine checks reduce the risk of failure during an emergency and ensure the AED is ready for immediate use.

✤ Professional support and planning: Ascent First Aid can work with you to identify a suitable AED for your environment and needs, and can also help provide a clear maintenance schedule plan. This support ensures your AED remains compliant, reliable, and ready to save a life when it matters most.

In summary, an AED is a vital life-saving device that significantly improves survival during cardiac arrest. Combining access to the right AED with expert guidance and a structured maintenance plan ensures the device is dependable and ready at all times.

AEDs can be expensive. The cost depends on the type, brand, and features, but most new AEDs for public or personal use range roughly from $1,200 to $2,500 or more.

There are basically two types: 

🟢 Fully Automatic AEDs

• Automatically deliver a shock if needed without the user pressing a button.

• Best for untrained rescuers or high‑stress situations.

• Slightly more expensive due to added safety and automation tech.

Pros:
✔ Easiest to use
✔ Best for bystanders with no training
✔ Fewer steps under stress

Cons:
✖ Slightly higher cost

🔵 Semi‑Automatic AEDs

• The device analyzes the rhythm and, if a shock is advised, prompts the user to press a button to deliver it.

• Still guides the user with voice and visual instructions.

Pros:
✔ Often less expensive than fully automatic
✔ User retains control over shock delivery
✔ Excellent choice for trained volunteers or workplaces

Cons:
✖ Requires one extra action from the rescuer

With the survival rate for sudden cardiac arrest being below 10%, it’s clear how crucial it is to have AEDs available in the places where we live, work, and play. Equally important, however, is having a maintenance plan to ensure that every AED is ready to use when it’s needed most.

There are several key reasons to regularly check your AEDs:

Reliability in an emergency: During a cardiac arrest, every second counts. It would be tragic if an AED were present but not functional when someone’s life depended on it. Regular checks ensure the device is ready for immediate use.

Early identification of issues: Routine maintenance allows you to spot potential problems early and contact the manufacturer if any questions or concerns arise, helping prevent failures before they happen.

By implementing a consistent maintenance plan, you ensure that your AEDs are always prepared to save lives.

AEDs are designed to make life‑or‑death decisions quickly and reliably. They are made from medical grade equipment and contain:

• Sophisticated sensors to read heart rhythms

• Built‑in decision algorithms

• Durable, ruggedized casings

• Battery and pad readiness monitoring

All of this adds to the manufacturing cost.

Whether you want guidance to choose the right Automated External Defibrillator (AED), or prefer to leave it entirely to us, we provide a seamless, professional solution that enhances safety and saves you time and money.